Shielded enclosures and related methods for protection from high-altitude electromagnetic pulses

ABSTRACT

Electromagnetically shielded and self-supporting panels form a shielded enclosure. The use of prefabricated, shielded and self-supporting panels to construct an enclosure reduces the time and cost of constructing such an enclosure.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/358,710 filed Jun. 25, 2021 (“'710 application”) and incorporates byreference the entire disclosure of the '710 application as if it wereset forth in full herein.

GOVERNMENT LICENSE RIGHTS

This invention was made with U.S. government support under ContractNumbers FA8650-17-P-5036 and FA8650-18-C-5030 awarded by the Departmentof Defense. The U.S. government has certain rights in the invention.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to the field of shielded enclosures forprotecting against Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), such asHigh-Altitude Electromagnetic Pulses (HEMP).

INTRODUCTION

This section introduces aspects that may be helpful to facilitate abetter understanding of the described invention(s). Accordingly, thestatements in this section are to be read in this light and are not tobe understood as admissions about what is, or what is not, in the priorart.

A man-made High-Altitude Magnetic Pulse (HEMP) is created through anuclear explosion above the source region of the atmosphere (20 to 40kilometers above the surface). High-energy gamma rays created by theexplosion interact with air molecules in the source region to create anElectromagnetic Pulse (EMP). This pulse exposes conductors, electronicdevices and electrical components to an electric field withinline-of-sight of the explosion. The electric field intensity isdependent on several factors, with the type of device, altitude, andexplosive magnitude being the primary factors, but can be on the orderof 50 kV/m and 1000 s of amps. In particular, modern electronics arecomposed of solid-state devices that are very sensitive to EMP andrequire protective measures to ensure their survivability.

A HEMP event is divided into three periods or frequency bands (i.e., theHEMP spectrum): Early-time (E1), Intermediate-time (E2), and Late-time(E3). FIG. 1 shows a sample HEMP waveform with the three phases labeledwhere E1 is created immediately at detonation and is composed of highfrequencies that affect short conductors, E2 is similar to lightningstrikes and is protected using lightning protection and E3 is composedof low frequencies and impacts conductors that are greater than akilometer, threatening power distribution and long communication lines.

The US Department of Defense (DoD) has issued standards (e.g.,MIL-STD-188-125-1 and MIL-STD-461) that detail the protective measuresthat shall be implemented to protect critical DoD facilities from EMIand the entire HEMP spectrum.

Protection from a HEMP is most widely provided using a structure knownas a Faraday Cage. This type of structure is a solid, continuous metalstructure that protects everything within (i.e., a box). However, such asolid metal structure is not functional because there is no way toprovide air, water, data signals, and other necessities for those whomust work within such a structure.

Traditionally, the protection provided a facility was tailored to thestructural design of the facility, its operational needs and the needsof those individuals working within the facility, for example. As thereader can imagine, this required significant one-time, non-recurringengineering (NRE) costs to design and fabricate a protective HEMPstructure for each facility, which required significant time at thefacility for construction and procurement of facility-specificmaterials, including the design and fabrication of custom (i.e.,one-time use) shielded panels and other components which were limited tobeing used at one facility. Further, due to the one-time design of thestructure, each facility required its own separate and distinctmaintenance plan and replacement components (e.g., panels).

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide solutions that overcome thedisadvantages of existing HEMP structures and methods of fabricatingsuch structures.

SUMMARY

The inventors describe various exemplary, inventive EMI enclosures toprotect against EMI, such as a HEMP event, for example, components ofsuch enclosures and methods for constructing such inventive enclosures.

One such inventive enclosure may comprise an enclosure that may beshielded to protect against electromagnetic interference (EMI), wherethe enclosure may comprise: a plurality of pre-fabricated lightweight,self-supporting and shielded side panels and custom-made, lightweightself-supporting and shielded side panels conductively connected to forma contiguous side structure, wherein one or more of the side panelscomprises tubing; a plurality of prefabricated, lightweightself-supporting and shielded top panels and custom-made, lightweightself-supporting and shielded top panels conductively connected to form acontiguous top structure, wherein each of the side panels and top panelsare circumferentially welded to one another; and one or more bottomcomponents. One or more of such side panels may be configured to supportthe load of one or more interior components, for example.

Such an exemplary enclosure may further comprise at least one shieldedexterior door for entry into, and exit from, the enclosure from, or to,outside of the enclosure.

In an embodiment, the number of prefabricated side panels in aninventive enclosure may be greater than the number of custom-made sidepanels or the number of prefabricated top panels may be greater than thenumber of custom-made top panels, for example.

It should be understood that the inventive enclosures described hereinmay be configured as a stand-a-lone enclosure, or an enclosureretrofitted to an existing, non-shielded structure or a newlyconstructed enclosure.

One non-limiting weight (that can be carried by two men) of an inventivelightweight side panel may be 165 pounds or less.

In embodiments, inventive side panels may be composed of a mild steel,stainless steel, an aluminum, a copper or a conductive composite, forexample.

Some embodiments of an inventive enclosure may comprise a system thatcontrols an internal door and one or more external doors such thatinternal door (i) will not necessarily open at the same time as one ofthe external doors and (ii) will open at the same time as one of theexternal doors in case of an emergency.

One or more of the inventive side panels and top panels used as a partof an inventive enclosure may be composed of a copper alloy and may beconductively connected using a brazing process or, alternatively, may becomposed of a conductive composite and conductively connected usingconductive tape, for example.

Some inventive enclosures may comprise a HEMP vault, where such a vaultmay further comprise one or more openings configured to allow conduitsto penetrate the enclosure to provide air, power, water, orcommunications into the enclosure and one or more Waveguide Below Cutofffilters, or another protective devices configured with each opening toprevent electromagnetic signals or fields from penetrating through suchopenings.

Additionally, one or more of the side and top panels of an inventiveenclosure may comprise a corrosion protective coating. Alternatively, orin addition, one or more of the side panels may comprise an absorptionlayer to absorb or reduce transmission of audio signals from, or into,the enclosure and one or more of the top panels may comprise anabsorption layer to absorb or reduce transmission of audio signals from,or into, the enclosure,

An inventive enclosure may be coated with a fire-retardant layer. Forexample, when an existing enclosure is being retrofitted with aninventive enclosure and welding may be required.

The side panels of an inventive enclosure may comprise a first set ofprefabricated side panels that have a first same size and a second setof prefabricated side panels that have a second same size, where thesecond size differs from the first size or wherein the plurality of toppanels may comprise a first set of prefabricated top panels that have afirst same size and a second set of prefabricated top panels that have asecond same size, where the second size differs from the first size.

In embodiments, one or more inventive side panels may be rectangular inshape or curved and one or more inventive top panels may be rectangularin shape or curved.

Still further, one or more side panels of an inventive enclosure may beconfigured with an access opening to allow a floor joint brace to beconnected to the side panel and to a bottom component and may bepositioned such that there is a minimally-sized gap between the bottomcomponent and a respective side panel, Such side panels may be furtherconfigured with a second opening to allow a side panel frame element tobe connected to the bottom component.

In addition to the structure and components described above, anexemplary, inventive enclosure may also comprise one or more EMI antennaassemblies configured on an exterior and interior surface of one or moreside panels or top panels. Each of the one or more EMI antennaassemblies that are configured on the exterior may comprise atransmitter and each of the one or more EMI antenna assembliesconfigured on the interior surface may comprise a receiver. Further,each of the antenna assemblies may still further comprise one or morenon-conductive mounting components, each composed of a non-conductivematerial to hold a respective antenna assembly at a fixed position onthe surface of a respective side or top panel and to electricallyisolate the respective antenna assembly from the respective side or toppanel.

Each of the one or more antenna assemblies (that comprise a transmitter)may be further configured such that such a transmitter is configured ata stand-off distance from another transmitter of another antennaassembly.

In an embodiment, the antenna assemblies may be connected to a real-timeelectronic monitoring, control and display subsystem, for example.

Regarding the top panels of an inventive enclosure, one or more of aplurality of top panels may comprise one or more layers, where one ofthe layers is an inner layer comprising an electromagnetic shieldingmaterial and another layer is an outer layer comprising a structuralself-supporting material, for example. Such an outer layer may comprisea complex, corrugated-shaped surface to provide rigidity, for example.

The inventors also provide additional enclosures that do not includecustom-made panels, one of which is an enclosure shielded to protectagainst EMI comprising: a plurality of pre-fabricated lightweight,self-supporting and shielded side panels conductively connected to forma contiguous side structure, wherein one or more of the side panelscomprises tubing; a plurality of prefabricated, lightweightself-supporting and shielded top panels conductively connected to form acontiguous top structure, wherein each of the side panels and top panelsare circumferentially welded to one another; and one or more bottomcomponents. This type of enclosure may further comprise the additionalfeatures described above and elsewhere herein.

In addition to inventive enclosures, the inventors also provide forrelated methods for protecting an enclosure against EMI. One such methodmay comprise: constructing a plurality of pre-fabricated lightweight,self-supporting and shielded side panels and custom-made, lightweightself-supporting and shielded side panels; conductively connecting eachof the side panels to form a contiguous side structure, wherein one ormore of the side panels comprises tubing; constructing a plurality ofprefabricated, lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panels andcustom-made, lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panels;conductively connecting each of the top panels to form a contiguous topstructure; circumferentially welding each of the side panels and toppanels to one another; and constructing one or more bottom components,to name just a few of the features of an inventive method.

A further description of these and additional embodiments is provided byway of the figures, notes contained in the figures and in the claimlanguage included below. The claim language included below isincorporated herein by reference in expanded form, that is,hierarchically from broadest to narrowest, with each possiblecombination indicated by the multiple dependent claim referencesdescribed as a unique standalone embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitedin the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicatesimilar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 shows a sample HEMP waveform.

FIGS. 2A and 2B depict different views of an exemplary, inventive HEMPenclosure according to embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 2C illustrates an interior view of a section of an exemplary,inventive HEMP enclosure according to embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict an isometric view (FIG. 3A) and a front view(FIG. 3B) of an exemplary, inventive lightweight side panel according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3C depicts an enlarged view of a section of an exemplary inventiveside panel according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 3D and 3E depict different views of an exemplary, inventivelightweight side panel according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A depicts an enlarged view of an exemplary HEMP antenna assemblyconnected to a side panel according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4B to 4D depict enlarged views of a mounting component for aninventive HEMP antenna assembly according to embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 5 depicts a view of a single, exemplary inventive HEMP shielded,top panel according to embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 6A to 6D depict views of an exemplary HEMP antenna assemblyconnected to a top panel according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 7A to 7D depict exemplary connection points between top, side andbottom components (e.g., panels) of an inventive enclosure according toembodiments of the invention.

Specific embodiments of the present invention are disclosed below withreference to various figures and sketches. Both the description and theillustrations have been drafted with the intent to enhanceunderstanding. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements inthe figures may be exaggerated or minimized (i.e., not to scale)relative to their actual size or relative to other elements, orwell-known elements. Other elements and well-known elements that arebeneficial or even necessary to a commercially successful implementationmay not be depicted so that a less obstructed and a more clearpresentation of embodiments may be achieved. Further, dimensions,weights and other parameters described herein are merely exemplary andnon-limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Simplicity and clarity in both illustration and description are soughtto effectively enable a person of skill in the art to make, use, andbest practice the present invention in view of what is already known inthe art. One skilled in the art will appreciate that variousmodifications and changes may be made to the specific embodimentsdescribed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent invention. Thus, the specification and drawings are to beregarded as illustrative and exemplary rather than restrictive orall-encompassing, and all such modifications to the specific embodimentsdescribed herein are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent invention. Yet further, it should be understood that thedetailed description that follows describes exemplary embodiments and isnot intended to be limited to the expressly disclosed combination(s).Therefore, unless otherwise noted, features disclosed herein may becombined together to form additional combinations that were nototherwise described or shown for purposes of brevity.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the terms “comprises,”“comprising,” or any other variation thereof is intended to refer to anon-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article ofmanufacture, device or apparatus (e.g., a connector) that comprises alist of elements does not include only those elements in the list, butmay include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to suchprocess, method, article of manufacture, device or apparatus. The terms“a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one, or more than one. Theterm “plurality”, as used herein, is defined as two, or more than two.The term “another”, as used herein, is defined as at least a second ormore. Unless otherwise indicated herein, the use of relational terms, ifany, such as “first” and “second”, “top”, “bottom”, and the like areused solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity oraction without necessarily requiring or implying any actual suchrelationship, priority, importance or order between such entities oractions.

The term “coupled”, as used herein, means at least the energy of anelectric field associated with an electrical current in one conductor isimpressed upon another conductor that is not connected galvanically.Said another way, the word “coupling” is not limited to either amechanical connection, a galvanic electrical connection, or afield-mediated electromagnetic interaction though it may include one ormore such connections, unless its meaning is limited by the context of aparticular description herein.

The use of “or” or “and/or” herein is defined to be inclusive (A, B or Cmeans any one or any two or all three letters) and not exclusive (unlessexplicitly indicated to be exclusive); thus, the use of “and/or” in someinstances is not to be interpreted to imply that the use of “or”somewhere else means that use of “or” is exclusive.

The terms “including” and/or “having”, as used herein, are defined ascomprising (i.e., open language).

The word “lightweight” as used herein means hand-carriable by twopeople.

As used herein the phrase electromagnetic interference or EMI includes,but is not limited to, a HEMP event.

It should also be noted that one or more exemplary embodiments may bedescribed as a method. Although a method may be described in anexemplary sequence (i.e., sequential), it should be understood that sucha method may also be performed in parallel, concurrently orsimultaneously. In addition, the order of each formative step within amethod may be re-arranged. A described method may be terminated whencompleted, and may also include additional steps that are not describedherein if, for example, such steps are known by those skilled in theart.

As used herein, “rectangular” denotes a geometry which includes a“square” geometry as an exemplary subset of rectangular geometry.

As used herein the phrase “shielded” means a component, structure,enclosure or method that uses such physical devices configured toprevent electromagnetic signals and fields, such as those generated froma HEMP, from penetrating the particular component, structure orenclosure unless the context or knowledge of one skilled in artindicates otherwise.

As used herein the phrase “self-supporting” structure means a structurethat can support its own weight and an additional load that weighs nomore than half the weight of the structure without requiring externalsupport structures, such as a vertical or horizontal beam.

As used herein, the term “embodiment” or “exemplary” mean an examplethat falls within the scope of the invention(s).

As described herein, the inventors discovered inventive EMI enclosuresand related methods for constructing and/or fabricating EMI enclosuresand components that (i) provide protection from HEMP events, (ii) areruggedized, (iii) can be used to meet specific, custom designs requiredby a facility at (iv) significantly reduced fabrication, installation,and design costs.

As explained further herein, the inventors believe that the inventivemethods and resulting inventive enclosures and components requiresignificantly less time on a facility's site (i.e., onsite) as comparedto existing methods because, for example, inventive self-supportingcomponents (e.g., panels) may be prefabricated and, therefore, greatlysimplify the erection of an inventive HEMP enclosure onsite (e.g., onlywelding to other panels may be required onsite).

Inventive, self-supporting panels discovered by the present inventorsare lightweight (i.e., two-person portable).

Further, the inventive enclosures and their components may be used assingle-room or multi-room enclosures (e.g., a complete facility,building), for constructing new enclosures or for retrofitting existingfacilities.

Referring now to FIG. 2A there is depicted a simplified view of anexemplary, inventive enclosure 1 according to an embodiment of theinvention. As will be explained in more detailed herein, in oneembodiment the enclosure 1 may be constructed of, and comprise, aplurality of pre-fabricated inventive, lightweight, self-supporting andshielded side panels 3 a and custom made, inventive, lightweightself-supporting and shielded panels 3 b forming an exterior boundary orwall(s), a plurality of prefabricated, inventive self-supporting andshielded top panels 2 a and custom-made, inventive self-supporting andshielded top panels 2 b and one or more bottom components (not shown inFIG. 2A, but see components 4 and 4 a in FIGS. 7A and 7D, for example).Also shown is at least one shielded exterior door 6 a for entry into,and exit from, the enclosure 1 from/to outside of the enclosure 1 thatprovides at least the same level of shielding as the inventive panels 3a, 3 b.

It should be understood that a “prefabricated” panel is a panel that hasdimensions that can be repeatedly used to make a plurality of panelswhile a “custom-made” panel is typically a panel that has unique,perhaps one-of-a-kind dimensions, that are typically limited to one or alimited number of panels. In the inventive enclosures discussed hereinthe number of prefabricated (side or top) panels included in aninventive enclosure is preferably greater than the number of (side ortop) custom-made panels included in such an enclosure.

While FIG. 2A depicts an example of a constructed stand-a-lone,inventive enclosure 1 it should be understood that an inventiveenclosure and inventive panels may be retrofitted to an existing,non-shielded structure. In such an embodiment, the inventive panels 2 a,2 b, 3 a, 3 b may be fastened to part of an existing structure usingstuds or bolts, for example. Though not shown in FIG. 2A, the shieldedenclosure 1 may also include one or more shock isolators to absorb anyunwanted vibrations due a seismic event, for example.

In embodiments, each of the lightweight side panels 3 a, 3 b may becomposed of a mild steel to name just one non-limiting composition. Inan embodiment, a non-limiting exemplary weight of an exemplary,inventive lightweight side panel that can be carried by two people maybe 165 pounds or less. Alternatively, the side panels 3 a, 3 b may becomposed of a stainless steel, an aluminum, a copper or a conductivecomposite, for example.

FIG. 2B depicts a different view of the constructed enclosure 1 (i.e., atop view) where the top panels 2 a, 2 b have been removed (not shown) toallow the reader to “see” inside the enclosure 1. In this embodiment,the enclosure 1 has two shielded, exterior doors 6 a, 6 b eachconfigured to be connected to the enclosure 1 and provide at least thesame level of shielding as the panels 3 a, 3 b. In embodiments, thedoors allow entrance into, and exit from, a respective, interiorstructure 7 a, 7 b (e.g., a room, vestibule) of the enclosure 1. In oneembodiment, each of the interior structures 7 a, 7 b may also beconstructed using one or more inventive panels 2 a, 2 b, 3 a, 3 b andmay be connected to other areas of the enclosure 1 using an internaldoor 6 c, for example. In embodiments, each door or opening may bedimensionally configured to allow equipment and personnel that requireentrance into the enclosure 1 to pass through. Further, the enclosure 1may include a mechanical, electrical or electro-mechanical system (notshown) that controls the internal door 6 c and one or both (or, if thereare more than two, some subset of the doors or all of the doors) of theexternal doors 6 a, 6 b such that internal door 6 c will not necessarilyopen at the same time as one of the external doors 6 a, 6 b, and,instead may require additional security measures to open the internaldoor 6 c. In an embodiment, the control system may be configured toallow the external doors 6 a, 6 b to open at the same time as theinternal door 6 c in case of an emergency.

In embodiments, each of the side panels 3 a, 3 b may be conductivelyconnected together to form a contiguous, shielded side structure (e.g.,a wall, boundary, having no gaps to prevent electromagnetic signals orfields from penetrating), each of the top panels 2 a, 2 b may beconductively connected together to form a contiguous, shielded topstructure (e.g., a roof).

In more detail, each of the side panels 3 a, 3 b and top panels 2 a, 2 brespectively, may be circumferential welded to one another (e.g., sidepanel to side panel, top panel to top panel, side panel to top panel,and floor to side panel) to form contiguous, shielded side structures,top structures, and enclosures, such as enclosure 1, respectively, forexample. Such a weld will be without any structural or electromagneticdefects and be non-porous.

Alternatively, if one or more of the panels 2 a, 2 b, 3 a, 3 b iscomposed of a copper alloy such panels may be conductively connectedusing a brazing process. Still further, if one or more of the panels 2a, 2 b, 3 a, 3 b is composed of a conductive composite such panels maybe conductively connected using conductive tape, for example.

In an embodiment, when an existing facility (e.g., room or building) isretrofitted with inventive side and top panels then one or moreprotective coatings (e.g., a corrosion protective coating) may beapplied to the existing structure of the existing facility and/or to oneor more of the inventive panels (unless the panels already comprise sucha coating) to provide long term protection from corrosion, for example,that could adversely affect the level of shielding. In addition, duringinstallation of the inventive panels to an existing structure using ahigh-temperature welding process, for example, such a structure may becoated or pre-coated with a fire-retardant layer to provide protectionduring installation of a welded, shielded panel over the existingstructure. Similarly, during construction of a new, inventive enclosurethe enclosure may be coated with a corrosion protection coating, forexample, to increase the life of the shield and minimize maintenancecosts.

FIG. 2B also indicates a section of the inventive enclosure 1 labeled“detail A”. An enlarged view of detail A is shown in FIG. 2C.

In FIG. 2C there is depicted two different dimensionally-sized, sidepanels 3 a, 3 b that are a part of inventive enclosure 1, wherelightweight side panel 3 a may comprise a self-supporting, prefabricatedpanel while panel 3 b may comprise a self-supporting, custom made panel,for example. In an embodiment, a custom-made panel 3 b may be preferablypositioned as a corner panel to complete the linear run and form a wall,for example.

In an embodiment, the inventors believe that prefabricating inventiveside-panels, such as panel 3 a, leads to a substantial reduction in theneed to fabricate a large number of panels on site (i.e., at thelocation of a facility to be constructed, or at the location of anexisting facility to be retrofitted). The inventors believe that theability to construct or retrofit a large number sides or walls usingprefabricated side-panels substantially reduces the time (and cost) ittakes to retrofit or construct a particular shielded side or wall aswell as the entire enclosure because fewer custom-made side-panels arerequired.

For example, in FIG. 2C, to construct section “A” of the enclosure 1,two inventive, lightweight prefabricated side-panels of the samedimensions 3 a (i.e., the same size) are used and only one custom madeside-panel 3 b is used. FIG. 2A illustrates another example where anentire side or wall of the enclosure 1 may comprise a plurality ofprefabricated, lightweight side-panels of the same dimensions 3 a andonly two custom made side-panels 3 b.

In addition, an inventive enclosure may include a so-called “HEMPcloset” or “HEMP vault” (hereafter collectively “HEMP vault”) along anexternal wall of side panels, for example, and may be configured withone or more openings configured to allow conduits to penetrate theenclosure to provide the necessary air, power, water, and/orcommunications (e.g., fiber optic) into the enclosure 1. In anembodiment, an exemplary HEMP vault may be configured to enclose orinclude all of such penetrations if possible in order to simplify anyrequired EMI testing and repairs, if necessary. Accordingly, to preventelectromagnetic signals or fields from penetrating through suchopenings, each opening may be configured to include one or moreWaveguide Below Cutoff (WBC), filters, or other protective devices.

While the custom-made side panels 3 b in FIG. 2A are positioned ascorner panels of a constructed wall or side and all of the prefabricatedpanels 3 a are positioned as middle panels of a constructed wall or side(i.e., in between two corners) this is merely exemplary. In otherembodiments, a prefabricated side-panel 3 a may be positioned as acorner panel and a custom-made panel 3 b may be positioned as a middlepanel.

In another embodiment, no custom-made side panel 3 b may be required toconstruct or retrofit a side or wall of an inventive enclosure providedthe total length of the wall can be constructed using just prefabricatedside panels, where each side panel may have as the same prefabricateddimensions (i.e., same size).

Still further, in another alternative embodiment, no custom-made sidepanel 3 b may be required to construct or retrofit a side or wall of aninventive enclosure provided the total length of the wall can beconstructed using two or more differently-sized, prefabricated sidepanels. For example, one embodiment may utilize a first set ofprefabricated side panels that have a first same size (i.e., same widthand height, e.g., 8 feet by 4 feet)) and a second set of prefabricatedside panels that have a second same size (e.g., 9 feet by 4 feet), wherethe second size differs from the first size.

In sum, one example of an inventive, shielded side or wall of aninventive shielded enclosure includes at least one or more inventive,prefabricated lightweight, self-supporting and shielded side panels andmay include one (or more) inventive, custom-made lightweight,self-supporting and shield side-panels, for example.

Similarly, the inventors discovered inventive top panels forconstructing or forming the top or ceiling of an inventive enclosure.

In FIG. 2A there is depicted two different dimensionally-sized, toppanels 2 a, 2 b that are a part of inventive enclosure 1, where panel 2a comprises an inventive, prefabricated, self-supporting and shieldedtop panel while panel 2 b may comprise an inventive, custom made,self-supporting and shielded top panel, for example. In an embodiment,the inventors believe that prefabricating top-panels, such as panel 2 a,leads to a substantial reduction in the need to fabricate a large numberof custom top-panels on site. The ability to construct or retrofit alarge number tops or roofs using prefabricated top-panels substantiallyreduces the time (and cost) it takes to retrofit or construct aparticular shielded top or roof as well as the entire enclosure becausefewer custom-made top-panels are required to be constructed on site.

For example, in FIG. 2A, to construct the inventive enclosure 1, theenclosure 1 utilizes three inventive, prefabricated top-panels of thesame dimensions 2 a (i.e., the same size) and only one custom made 2 bwhose dimensions limit its use for a particular, single enclosure or alimited number of similar sized enclosures.

Similar to above, while the custom-made top panel 2 b in FIG. 2A ispositioned as a top, corner panel of a top or roof this is merelyexemplary. In other embodiments, a prefabricated side-panel may bepositioned as both top corners and a custom-made top panel may bepositioned in the middle of the top or roof.

In sum, an inventive shielded top or roof of an inventive, shieldedenclosure may include at least one or more prefabricated shielded toppanels and one (or more) custom-made shielded top-panels, for example.

In another embodiment, no custom-made top panel 2 b may be required toconstruct or retrofit a top or roof of an inventive enclosure providedthe total length of the top can be constructed using just prefabricatedtop panels (e.g., one prefabricated sized top panel, or more than onesized of prefabricated top panels).

For example, one embodiment may utilize a first set of inventive,prefabricated top panels that have a first same size (e.g., same widthand height) and a second set of inventive, prefabricated top panels thathave a second same size (e.g., same width and height), where the secondsize differs from the first size.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B there is depicted an isometric view(FIG. 3A) and a front view (FIG. 3B) of an exemplary, inventivelightweight HEMP shielded side panel 3 a according to an embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 3B illustrates exemplary, non-limiting dimensions ofan inventive side panel 3 a, though these dimension are merelyexemplary. Further, while the inventive side panels 3 a (as well asinventive top panels 2 a) are shown as being rectangular in shape in thefigures, it should be understood that this is merely exemplary. Forexample, one or more self-supporting, curved side or top panels havingone or more of non-linear edges may also be used to form an inventiveenclosure.

In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B each of the exemplarylightweight side panel 3 a comprises a substantially flat shielded panelinsert 3 d and may comprise one or more connected, shielded side panelframe elements 3 c (e.g., square tubing), where elements 3 c may beconfigured to be connected around edges of a substantially flat shieldedpanel insert 3 d and, additionally, may optionally be configured acrossa vertical or horizontal section of an insert 3 d to support insert 3 d,for example (see self-supporting frame 3 cc in FIG. 3B). In embodimentsthe insert 3 d and frames 3 c, 3 cc may compose a type of mild steel,for example. Alternatively, the insert 3 d and frames 3 c, 3 cc may becomposed of a stainless steel, an aluminum, a copper or a conductivecomposite, for example.

In embodiment, the frames 3 c, 3 cc may be connected to the insert 3 dby welding when the insert and frame(s) is composed of a steel forexample. Alternatively, if an insert 3 d and frame 3 c, 3 cc arecomposed of a copper alloy then each may be connected together using abrazing process. Still further, if an insert 3 d and frame 3 c, 3 cc arecomposed of a composed of a conductive composite then each may beconnected together using conductive tape, for example.

In embodiments, the inclusion of frames 3 c, 3 cc in a panel 3 a make itunnecessary to use external support structures such as a beam, forexample, to support an individual panel 3 a.

Each self-supporting lightweight side panel 3 a may be carried by twopeople (i.e., two-person portable), for example.

In an embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 3B at a position 3 e of anexemplary panel 3 a frames 3 c, 3 cc may be configured to intersect. Inmore detail, a panel 3 a may comprise a vertical frame element 3 cc thatis configured with an angular notch or passageway to allow a horizontalframe element 3 c to pass through, for example (or vice-versa).

In embodiments, the inserts 3 d of one or more side panels 3 a or 3 bmay be configured to overlap frames 3 c (e.g., square tubing) of anadjacent panel 3 a or 3 b, allowing the inserts 3 d (i.e., the flatsurfaces of each panel) of such panels to be constructed or connectedtogether using continuous welds, for example, (when the panels arecomposed of a steel), and minimizing the risk of hot sparks from weldsigniting an existing structure or nearby structures.

Further, while FIGS. 3A and 3B depict a self-supporting frame 3 ccacross a vertical section of an insert 3 d, this is merely exemplary.Alternatively, some inventive lightweight panels 3 a do not include sucha self-supporting frame across a vertical (or horizontal) section. Forexample, depending on the particular design of the panel 3 a, one ormore of the panels 3 a that have a width (measured along the x-axis) of10 to 15 feet may not require such an intermediate, self-supportingstructure as frame 3 cc.

Referring now to FIG. 3C there is illustrated an enlarged view of asection of an exemplary inventive side panel 3 a according to anembodiment of the invention. As shown, as a part of the construction ofthe enclosure one or more of the side panels 3 a may be configured withan access opening 8 a to allow a floor joint brace (e.g., an angle iron,see component 4 a in FIG. 7B) to be connected to a side panel 3 a and tothe floor 4 (e.g., to a floor of an existing facility being retrofitted)or a bottom component using a combination of a nut and bolt, forexample, in order to connect the side panel to the floor. Further, theaccess opening may be positioned such that there is a minimally-sizedgap between the existing floor (or wall) and an inventive panel.

While access opening 8 a in FIG. 3C is depicted as being positioned in alower corner of a side panel 3 a, 3 b this is merely exemplary. Inalternative embodiments, an access opening may be positioned in adifferent section of a side panel. For example, an opening may bepositioned at the top of a side panel in order to connect a side panelto the top or roof of an existing structure, for example. In general, anopening may be positioned in a panel to connect a panel to anothercomponent of an existing structure or enclosure during retrofitting ofsuch a structure or enclosure, for example.

Similar openings may be included in custom made panels 3 b to connectone side panel 3 b to another component of an existing structure orenclosure using an angle iron, for example (see element 4 a in FIG. 7B).

Still further, the inventive, self-supporting panels 3 a (as well ascustom-made panels 3 b) may be constructed or configured to support theload of one or more light fixtures, sheet rock, internal furnishings,etc., (collectively “interior components”) for example. In embodiments,one or more fasteners (not shown in figures) for attaching theseinterior components to a panel 3 a or 3 b may be provided. Suchfasteners may be connected to a panel 3 a, 3 b using welds or an epoxy,for example. In embodiments, if an enclosure 1 includes such interiorcomponents, such components are installed before testing of theenclosure is completed so that the electromagnetic shielding integrityof the shielded panels 3 a, 3 b of upon which the interior component isconnected is not compromised. After testing, a non-conducting epoxy maybe added to additional connection points of an interior component.

In embodiments, an inventive, self-supporting side panel 3 a or toppanel 2 a may be configured to comprise one or more additional layers toshield the occupants or equipment within the enclosure 1 from othersignals other than EMI signals. For example, an inventive side panel ortop panel may include an absorption layer to absorb or reduce thetransmission of signals having an audio frequency (i.e., audio signals)from, or into, an inventive enclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B also include a depiction of an optional EMI antennaassembly 5. In an embodiment, an enclosure 1 may be constructed toinclude one or more EMI antenna assemblies 5, where one (or more)assembly 5 may be configured on (i.e., mounted on or within) an exteriorand interior surface of a panel 3 a, 3 b.

In an embodiment, an assembly 5 mounted on the exterior surface of apanel 3 a, 3 b may comprise a transmitter (not shown in figures).Further, a second assembly 5 mounted on the interior surface of thepanel 3 a, 3 b may comprise a receiver, for example (not shown infigures).

So configured, the set of antenna assemblies may be operable to completea self-test of the panel 3 a, 3 b. For example, one or moreelectromagnetic frequencies may be transmitted from the assembly 5 thatis on the exterior of a panel 3 a, 3 b. At the same time, the assembly 5on the interior of the panel 3 a, 3 b may be operable to detect thoseelectromagnetic frequencies that may penetrate the panel 3 a, 3 b wherethe assembly 5 is configured (i.e., positioned). In this way the EMIshielding effectiveness of a panel can be tested (i.e., if no EMIfrequencies are detected the shielding of the panel is effective, anddoes not need to be replaced or repaired).

Still further, each antenna assembly 5 may be connected to a real-timeelectronic monitoring, control and display subsystem (not shown) toindicate one or more detected frequencies (or no detected frequencies)so that a user of the enclosure 1 or maintenance personnel is informedof the electromagnetic shielding status of a panel 3 a, 3 b (e.g., sothat a panel 3 a, 3 b upon which an assembly 5 is configured, may or maynot need to be repaired or replaced).

While more than one assembly 5 may be mounted on an exterior or interiorsurface of a single panel 3 a, 3 b in embodiments, each transmittingantenna assembly 5 may be configured at a distance (separation) from oneanother to avoid detection of a repetitive signal, for example(sometimes referred to as a “stand-off” distance). In an embodiment,each assembly may be separated by a maximum distance of 10 feet, forexample, to name a non-limiting distance. In alternative embodiments,the stand-off distance is less than 10 feet. Still further, thestand-off distance may vary depending on the transmission and/orreception capabilities of a given assembly 5.

Referring to FIGS. 3D and 3E there are depicted additional views of aninventive panel 3 a (or custom panel 3 b). As shown, a second opening 3g is positioned through a bottom frame 3 c of a panel 3 a, 3 b. Inembodiments, as a part of the construction of the enclosure a second nutand bolt may be passed through the opening 3 g to connect a side panelframe element 3 c to a bottom component (e.g., foundation, floor of anexisting structure). To access the opening 3 g a user (e.g. installer ofthe panel 3 a, 3 b) may first access the opening 8 n in the same panel 3a, 3 b shown in FIG. 3C.

Referring now to FIG. 4A there is depicted an enlarged view of anexemplary antenna assembly 5 according to an embodiment of theinvention. In an embodiment, an inventive assembly 5 may comprise anelectromagnetic antenna 5 b configured to be physically connected to anantenna body 5 c and mounting components 5 a. In FIG. 4A the assembly 5comprises a transmitter (not shown) and transmission antenna 5 b mountedon an exterior surface of a panel 3 a, 3 b, though it should beunderstood that an assembly 5 may comprise a receiver and receivingantenna mounted on an interior surface or a transceiver and atransceiving antenna that may be mounted on an exterior or interiorsurface of a panel 3 a, 3 b.

As depicted, the exemplary assembly 5 may comprise one or more integralnon-conductive mounting components 5 a (e.g., studs), each of which maybe composed of a non-conductive, thermo-plastic material and may bemounted to a surface of the panel 3 a, 3 b using an adhesive or epoxy,for example, to hold the assembly 5 at a fixed, stand-off positioncorresponding to a stand-off distance on the surface of the panel 3 a, 3b for example, and to electrically isolate the antenna 5 b from thepanel 3 a, 3 b. Alternatively, one or more of the components 5 a may notbe integral to the body 5 c. In an embodiment components 5 a may firstbe connected to a frame 3 c, 3 cc of a panel 3 a, 3 b using an adhesiveor epoxy, for example, and then the assembly 5 may be forcibly insertedinto (e.g., snapped into) the space between each component 5 a. Theresisting force(s) of the components 5 a are operable to hold theassembly 5 in place.

Referring now to FIGS. 4B to 4D there are depicted enlarged views of amounting component 5 a that may function to mount an antenna assembly 5to a side panel 3 a, 3 b or, as explained further herein, to a top panel2 a, 2 b. Though FIGS. 4C and 4D depict dimensions it should beunderstood that such dimensions are non-limiting, and merely exemplary.In embodiments, the dimensions of the component 5 a may vary as thethickness of a panel or size of an assembly 5 varies. As discussedpreviously, to attach an inventive antenna assembly 5 to a side or toppanel the components 5 a may be first connected to a panel, and,thereafter an assembly 5 may be inserted into one or more components 5 ato fixably connect the assembly 5 to a panel. Alternatively, if thecomponent 5 a are integral with the assembly 5 or already connected tothe assembly 5, then the assembly 5 and component 5 a may be connectedas one component to a panel.

Referring now to FIG. 5 there is depicted a view of a single, exemplaryinventive lightweight shielded, prefabricated top panel 2 a (i.e., eachpanel 2 a or 2 b is two-man portable). As shown, each panel 2 a (orcustom-made panel 2 b) may comprise one or more layers 2 c, 2 d. Thoughonly two layers are depicted in FIG. 5 it should be understood thatalternative top panels may comprise additional layers or conversely, thelayers may be combined into a single layer. In an embodiment a first orinner layer 2 d may comprise an electromagnetic shielding material, suchas a flat steel to name just one of a number of materials that may beused, while a second or outer layer 2 c may comprise a structuralself-supporting material, such as a corrugated-shaped metal to name justone of a number of materials that may be used, to provide structuralstrength to the top panel 2 a. In an embodiment, layer 2 c may beconfigured as a complex, shaped surface (e.g., corrugated) to providerigidity to each panel 2 a (or 2 b). Such rigidity makes eachprefabricated panel 2 a (or 2 b) self-supporting. Further, layer 2 d maybe formed as a substantially flat layer to allow such a layer to beconnected to another adjacent layer of a top panel, for example. In anembodiment, when the layers 2 c, 2 d comprise a steel, the layers may bewelded together, for example.

Yet further, in embodiments when the material selected as thecomposition for the inner layer 2 d comprises a steel, prefabricated toppanels 2 a may be welded together (and to side panels, as describedelsewhere herein) without needing to form top panels that includecomplex geometries or angles, to name one conductive connection method.

Alternatively, if one or more of the panels 2 a (or 2 b) is composed ofa copper alloy such panels may be conductively connected using a brazingprocess. Still further, if one or more of the panels 2 a, 2 b iscomposed of a conductive composite such panels may be conductivelyconnected using conductive tape, for example.

In embodiments inventive layer 2 c may be 4.5 inches thick, 24 incheswide, and up to 15 feet in length, for example, while inventive layer 2d may have a thickness of 16 to 20 gauge, though it should be understoodthat these dimensions are non-limiting and merely exemplary. Further,each of the inventive panels 2 a, 2 b may be designed to allow maximumspan without requiring internal support columns that reduce the usefularea inside the protected volume of the enclosure 1.

When additional support for prefabricated, self-supporting panels 2 a(as well as custom-made panels 2 b) is required, the enclosure 1 mayconstructed of, or include, one or more support beams 2 e (see FIG. 2B).In embodiments, beams may be required for long roof spans, additionalroof loads, or when additional rigidity may be required, and can beinstalled inside or outside the shielded volume of the enclosure 1.Beams may also be attached to frames 3 c side panels 3 a, 3 b, forexample.

Still further, prefabricated panels 2 a (as well as custom-made panels 2b) may be constructed or configured to support the load of one or morelight fixtures, interior ceiling panels, etc. that may be attached tothe interior layer 2 d (or a similar interior layer of a custom-madepanel), for example. In embodiments, one or more fasteners (not shown infigures) for attaching these interior components to the interior layer 2d may be provided. Such fasteners may comprise a non-conductive materialand may be connected to layer 2 d using welds or an epoxy, for example.In embodiments, if an enclosure 1 includes such interior components,such components are installed before testing of the enclosure iscompleted so that electromagnetic shielding integrity of the shieldlayer 2 d of upon which the interior component is connected is notcompromised. After testing, a non-conducting epoxy may be added toadditional connection points of an interior component.

It should be understood that the description above for the prefabricatedtop panels 2 a may be applicable to each of the custom-made top panels 2b as well.

FIGS. 6A to 6D depict different views of an exemplary antenna assembly 5connected to a prefabricated top panel 2 a (or custom-made panel 2 b)according to an embodiment of the invention. Similar to antennaassemblies 5 that are connected to a side panel, in embodiments of theinvention an enclosure 1 may include one or more antenna assemblies 5.In an embodiment, an assembly 5 may comprise a transmitter (not shown)and transmitting antenna 5 b and may be mounted on an exterior surfaceof a panel 2 a, 2 b. Further, a second assembly comprising a receiverand receiving antenna may be mounted on an interior surface of the samepanel 2 a, 2 b, for example (not shown in figures) or at anotherposition within the enclosure 1.

So configured, the set of antenna assemblies may be operable to completea self-test of the panel 2 a, 2 b. For example, one or moreelectromagnetic frequencies may be transmitted from the assembly 5 thatis on the exterior of a panel 2 a, 2 b. At the same time, the assembly 5on the interior of the panel 2 a, 2 b may be operable to detect thoseelectromagnetic frequencies that may penetrate the panel 2 a, 2 b wherethe assembly 5 is configured (i.e., positioned). In this way the EMIshielding effectiveness of a panel can be tested (i.e., if no EMIfrequencies are detected the shielding of the panel is effective, anddoes not need to be replaced or repaired).

Still further, each antenna assembly 5 may be connected to a real-timeelectronic monitoring, control and display subsystem (not shown) toindicate one or more detected frequencies (or no detected frequencies)so that a user of the enclosure 1 or maintenance personnel is informedof the electromagnetic shielding status of a panel 2 a, 2 b (e.g., sothat a panel 2 a, 2 b upon which an assembly 5 is configured, may or maynot need to be repaired or replaced).

While more than one assembly 5 may be mounted on an exterior or interiorsurface of a single panel 2 a, 2 b in embodiments, each antenna assembly5 may be configured at a distance (separation) from one another to avoiddetection of a repetitive signal, for example (sometimes referred to asa “stand-off” distance). In an embodiment, each assembly may beseparated by a maximum distance of 10 feet, for example, to name anon-limiting distance. In alternative embodiments, the stand-offdistance is less than 10 feet. Still further, the stand-off distance mayvary depending on the transmission and/or reception capabilities of agiven assembly 5.

FIG. 6B depicts an enlarged view of an exemplary antenna assembly 5according to an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment aninventive assembly 5 may comprise an electromagnetic antenna 5 bconfigured to be physically connected to an antenna body 5 c. Asdepicted, the assembly 5 may comprise one or more integral,non-conductive mounting components 5 a (e.g., studs), each of which maybe composed of a non-conductive, thermo-plastic material and may beconnected to a surface of the panel 2 a, 2 b using an adhesive or epoxy,for example, to hold the assembly 5 at a fixed, stand-off positioncorresponding to a stand-off distance on the surface of the panel 2 a, 2b for example, and to electrically isolate the antenna 5 b from thepanel 2 a, 2 b. Alternatively, one or more of the components 5 a may notbe integral to the body 5 c. In such an embodiment components 5 a mayfirst be connected to a panel 2 a, 2 b using an adhesive or epoxy, forexample, and then the assembly 5 may be forcibly inserted into (e.g.,snapped into) the space between each component 5 a. The resistingforce(s) of the components 5 a are operable to hold the assembly 5 inplace.

Referring to FIGS. 7A to 7D there are depicted different views ofexemplary connection points between top, side and bottom components(e.g., panels) that may be used to construct an inventive enclosure 1according to embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7A depicts the connection of an inventive side panel 3 a (or acustom made panel 3 b) to an inventive top panel 2 a (or to a custommade top panel 2 b) and to a shielded bottom component 4 (e.g., floor).FIG. 7A includes two sections, sections “B” and “C” that are shownenlarged in FIGS. 7B and 7C. In an embodiment, the bottom component 4may comprise one or more shielded panels, or may comprise the foundationof an existing structure, or may comprise sheet steel welded together,for example. In an embodiment, the shielded bottom component 4 may beconstructed such that it is positioned on top of existing floors and maybe supported by metal framing to allow antenna assemblies, such asassembly 5 described elsewhere herein, to be placed in between theexisting floor and shielded panels or floor. The bottom component panelsmay be constructed or configured in different ways depending on buildingrequirements.

Referring to FIG. 7B, in an embodiment a prefabricated side panel 3 a(or custom-made panel 3 b) may be connected to the bottom component 4using one or more joint braces 4 a. In an embodiment, a brace 4 a may becomposed of a mild steel, for example, and may be shaped as an angularbracing component (e.g., an angle iron), for example. As indicatedpreviously, to allow an installer to connect the side panel to thebottom component 4 or another panel, a panel 3 a may be configured withan access opening 8 a to allow a fastener (e.g., a bolt and nut; notshown in figures) to be adjusted (i.e., tightened) to secure the brace 4a to connect a panel to the floor (see FIG. 3C). In embodiments, becausethe access opening 8 a provides access to both the side panel and bottomcomponent or to two side panels connect, the panels may be positioneddirectly up against a wall maximizing the existing space. Inembodiments, once the braces 4 a have been adjusted to secure a panel tothe bottom component 4 (or to another panel), an EMI shielded patchpanel may be welded over the opening 8 a to close the opening to preventelectromagnetic signals (e.g., a HEMP) from penetrating the enclosure 1.

Referring to FIG. 7C, in an embodiment a prefabricated top panel 2 a (orcustom-made panel 2 b) may be constructed or connected to a side panel 3a (or 3 b) using one or more roof connectors 4 b. In an embodiment, aroof connector 4 b may be composed of a mild steel, for example, and maybe shaped as an angular bracing component (e.g., an angle iron), forexample. In embodiments, the shielded layer 2 d of the top panel 2 aprovides a substantially flat, even surface to allow the connectors 4 band panels 2 a,2 b, 3 a, 3 b to be connected together from the interiorof the layer 2 d.

Referring to FIG. 7D, in an embodiment frames 3 c of an inventive sidepanel 3 a (or custom-made panel 3 b) is shown constructed or connectedto a roof beam 3 f using one or more braces 4 b to add additionalbracing for the side panel 3 a or top panel.

It should be understood that the enclosures, and their components aswell as related methods of constructing such enclosures may preferablybe stationary land-based enclosures. However, many of the features ofthe inventive enclosures and methods described and claimed herein may beincluded in, and/or applied to, movable (motorized enclosures),ship-based enclosures and/or airborne enclosures as well. Accordingly,it should be understood that such airborne or sea-based inventiveenclosures include features that meet military specificationsMIL-STD-4023 and/or MIL-STD-188-125-2, for example.

Further, though the enclosures described and claimed herein effectivelyprotect against EMI (e.g., a HEMP event) it should be understood thatthese same enclosures may further protect users from chemical,biological, radiological, and nuclear agents or attacks.

The inventive enclosures and methods of constructing an enclosure mayalso be designed with software that comprises special instructions fordesigning and/or constructing an inventive enclosure that includes thefeatures described herein, where the instructions may be stored in oneor more electronic memories. The instructions may then be executed byone or more electronic processors to produce a design of an inventiveenclosure or method constructing an inventive enclosure that includesone or more of the features described and/or claimed herein. Suchsoftware may take the form of a downloadable APP stored on anelectronic, hand-held wireless or wired device or may be accessibleusing a browser on a hand-held device, desktop computer or laptopcomputer, for example.

The claim language included below is incorporated herein by reference inexpanded form, that is, hierarchically from broadest to narrowest, witheach possible combination indicated by the multiple dependent claimreferences described as a unique standalone embodiment

While benefits, advantages, and solutions have been described above withregard to specific embodiments of the present invention, it should beunderstood that such benefits, advantages, and solutions and anyelement(s) that may cause or result in such benefits, advantages, orsolutions, or cause such benefits, advantages, or solutions to becomemore pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or anessential feature or element of any or all the claims appended to thepresent disclosure or that result from the present disclosure.

We claim:
 1. An enclosure shielded to protect against electromagneticinterference (EMI) comprising: a plurality of pre-fabricatedlightweight, self-supporting and shielded side panels and custom-made,lightweight self-supporting and shielded side panels conductivelyconnected to form a contiguous side structure, wherein one or more ofthe side panels comprises tubing; a plurality of prefabricated,lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panels and custom-made,lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panels conductivelyconnected to form a contiguous top structure, wherein each of the sidepanels and top panels are circumferentially welded to one another; aHEMP vault comprising one or more openings configured to allow conduitsto penetrate the enclosure to provide air, power, water, orcommunications into the enclosure and one or more Waveguide Below Cutofffilters or another protective device configured with each opening toprevent electromagnetic signals or fields from penetrating through suchopenings; and one or more bottom components.
 2. The enclosure as inclaim 1 further comprising at least one shielded exterior door for entryinto, and exit from, the enclosure from, or to, outside of theenclosure.
 3. The enclosure as in claim 1 wherein the number ofprefabricated side panels is greater than the number of custom-made sidepanels or wherein the number of prefabricated top panels is greater thanthe number of custom-made top panels.
 4. The enclosure as in claim 1wherein the enclosure comprises a stand-a-lone enclosure, or anenclosure retrofitted to an existing, non-shielded structure or a newlyconstructed enclosure.
 5. The enclosure as in claim 1 wherein one of thelightweight side panels weighs 165 pounds or less.
 6. The enclosure asin claim 1 wherein the side panels are composed of a mild steel,stainless steel, an aluminum, a copper or a conductive composite.
 7. Theenclosure as in claim 1 further comprising a system that controls aninternal door and one or more external doors such that internal door (i)will not necessarily open at the same time as one of the external doorsand (ii) will open at the same time as one of the external doors in caseof an emergency.
 8. The enclosure as in claim 1 wherein one or more ofthe side panels and top panels are composed of a copper alloy and areconductively connected using a brazing process or wherein one or more ofthe side panels and top panels are composed of a conductive compositeand are conductively connected using conductive tape.
 9. The enclosureas in claim 1 wherein (i) one or more of the side and top panels arecomprise a corrosion protective coating or (ii) wherein one or more ofthe side panels comprises an absorption layer to absorb or reducetransmission of audio signals from, or into, the enclosure and whereinone or more of the top panels comprises an absorption layer to absorb orreduce transmission of audio signals from, or into, the enclosure, or(iii) the enclosure is coated with a fire-retardant layer.
 10. Theenclosure as in claim 1 wherein the plurality of side panels comprises afirst set of prefabricated side panels that have a first same size and asecond set of prefabricated side panels that have a second same size,where the second size differs from the first size or wherein theplurality of top panels comprises a first set of prefabricated toppanels that have a first same size and a second set of prefabricated toppanels that have a second same size, where the second size differs fromthe first size.
 11. The enclosure as in claim 1 wherein one or more ofthe side panels are rectangular in shape or curved and wherein one ormore of the top panels are rectangular in shape or curved.
 12. Theenclosure as in claim 1 wherein one or more of the side panels isconfigured to support the load of one or more interior components. 13.An enclosure shielded to protect against electromagnetic interference(EMI) comprising: a plurality of pre-fabricated lightweight,self-supporting and shielded side panels and custom-made, lightweightself-supporting and shielded side panels conductively connected to forma contiguous side structure, wherein one or more of the side panelscomprises tubing; a plurality of prefabricated, lightweightself-supporting and shielded top panels and custom-made, lightweightself-supporting and shielded top panels conductively connected to form acontiguous top structure, wherein each of the side panels and top panelsare circumferentially welded to one another; one or more bottomcomponents; and one or more EMI antenna assemblies configured on anexterior and interior surface of one or more of the plurality of sidepanels or top panels, and wherein each of the one or more EMI antennaassemblies configured on the exterior comprises a transmitter and eachof the one or more EMI antenna assemblies configured on the interiorsurface comprises a receiver, and further wherein the one or more EMIantenna assemblies further comprises one or more non-conductive mountingcomponents each composed of a non-conductive material to hold arespective antenna assembly at a fixed position on the surface of arespective side or top panel and to electrically isolate the respectiveantenna assembly from the respective side or top panel.
 14. Theenclosure as in claim 13 wherein each of the one or more antennaassemblies comprising a transmitter is configured at a distance from oneanother of the one or more antenna assemblies configured as atransmitter and is connected to a real-time electronic monitoring,control and display subsystem.
 15. An enclosure shielded to protectagainst electromagnetic interference (EMI) comprising: a plurality ofpre-fabricated lightweight, self-supporting and shielded side panels andcustom-made, lightweight self-supporting and shielded side panelsconductively connected to form a contiguous side structure, wherein oneor more of the side panels comprises tubing; a plurality ofprefabricated, lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panels andcustom-made, lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panelsconductively connected to form a contiguous top structure, wherein eachof the side panels and top panels are circumferentially welded to oneanother, and wherein one or more of the plurality of top panelscomprises one or more layers, where one of the layers is an inner layercomprising an electromagnetic shielding material and another layer is anouter layer comprising a structural self-supporting material having anda complex, corrugated-shaped surface to provide rigidity; and one ormore bottom components.
 16. An enclosure shielded to protect againstelectromagnetic interference (EMI) comprising: a plurality ofpre-fabricated lightweight, self-supporting and shielded side panels andcustom-made, lightweight self-supporting and shielded side panelsconductively connected to form a contiguous side structure, wherein oneor more of the side panels comprises tubing; a plurality ofprefabricated, lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panels andcustom-made, lightweight self-supporting and shielded top panelsconductively connected to form a contiguous top structure, wherein eachof the side panels and top panels are circumferentially welded to oneanother; and one or more bottom components, wherein one or more of theside panels is configured with an access opening to allow a floor jointbrace to be connected to the side panel and to the bottom component andis positioned such that there is a minimally-sized gap between thebottom component and a respective side panel and wherein one or more ofthe side panels is further configured with a second opening to allow aside panel frame element to be connected to the bottom component.